Karan Johar’s new film, Homebound, keeps going from strength to strength globally, with a resounding standing ovation at its North American premiere at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). A creation of writer-director Neeraj Ghaywan, the film left the audience spellbound with its multi-layered narrative, strong subject matter, and exceptional performances.
After its highly acclaimed world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival in May, the TIFF reception further cements the film’s status as a major contender for the coming award season. Official social media accounts of the production posted emotional updates expressing gratitude to the audience, while Karan Johar did so with pride by reposting the moment on his Instagram Stories. Homebound is produced by Johar and Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra.
A Moving Story of Friendship, Caste, and Ambition
Told in the backdrop of small-town India, Homebound is about two childhood friends studying for the national police entry exam. As the test date nears, they are fighting internal demons and external forces of oppression, particularly when it comes to caste and ambition. The story deconstructs ideas of friendship, fidelity, and socio-political disparity—signatures of everyday life in Ghaywan’s previous films such as Masaan and Geeli Pucchi.
The movie features Ishaan Khatter, Vishal Jethwa, and Janhvi Kapoor, all of whom were highly acclaimed at TIFF for their performances that touched hearts. Their chemistry and depth on the screen were one of the major highlights for both the audiences and the critics.
Also Read: The Fashion Trio: Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi Kapoor, and Vishal Jethwa’s TIFF Looks that Stole the Show
Global Recognition and Oscar Buzz
In a coup coup, Homebound also boasts Martin Scorsese as an executive producer, lending it extra global gravitas and opening the doors to wider distribution. Although no official Indian theatrical release date has been given, the film’s two thumbs-up reception at Cannes and TIFF make it a real player on the 2026 global awards circuit.
